BOXING legend Barry McGuigan backed new Commonwealth cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith to put on a stellar show in his hometown of Bournemouth.

The Dorset fighter sealed his first professional title with a brutal fifth-round stoppage of Craig Glover in Liverpool tonight.

And his manager McGuigan, a former featherweight world champion, believes ‘The Gentleman’ should capitalise on his “massive support” on the south coast.

The world and international boxing hall of famer told Sky Sports: “I’m so proud of this young fella here, Chris.

“You didn’t give him much of a chance as an amateur. I know he is going to be a sensational pro.

“The cruiserweight division is really exciting, domestically and on the world scene. I think he’d like to be involved in some really good domestic fights and make himself a few pounds.

“I think we should be going down to his hometown because he has massive support.

“I really believe he can be in the mix and he can certainly be fighting for British and possibly European titles in the not too distant future.”